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Steps

1

Try to calm down so you can think clearly. This sounds very difficult but this is the number one thing that can be the difference in living or being murdered.

2

Try to "connect" with one of the perpetrators, if possible.

Look them straight into their eyes without showing fear and begin a conversation with them.

One important principle is to try to get them to see you in a different way, try to be as much on their level as possible. (Say "I can't help it if I'm poor." after they demanded more money than I had. Untrue, but it made an impact on the one I connected with.)

3

Watch their faces, especially their eye and mouth area for slight changes. This will tell you if you are connecting or not. If they want your wallet or purse, give it to them and don't try to be a hero and hold on to anything they want. It's better to lose "things" than your life!

4

If they continue to say they are going to kill you, don't despair. Say something like "If you kill someone, your life will never be the same." but not in a judgmental or bossy way. This may not be something you want to do but it is something that may make them think--if they can. (If they are clearly drugged do not say this to them.)

5

Be helpful. If they have all your bills, offer them your coins so they understand you are cooperating to the nth degree. If you have an opportunity to speak freely, try to incorporate yourself into their "group" by saying something like: "Why don't we do this. Why don't you leave and not kill me and I will not tell anyone that you were here or that I was robbed. I won't call the police if you just leave."

6

Don't be "bossy" about this but just say it in a normal manner without seeming to be pushy. This may or may not work in every situation but it is worth a try. The alternative is being killed on the spot. Why not try it, at least. Miracles do happen! Hostility only brings on more hostility. If you are a religious person, a little prayer for help never hurts either!

Community Q&A

If the attacker is armed with a weapon such as a knife or gun, then you should avoid combat. You don't want unnecessary injuries. If the attacker appears vulnerable, then you can try to use your skills to protect yourself.

If you have been shot, and the burglar has fled the scene, remain calm and assess your wound. If it is bleeding heavily, wrap it tightly with clean cloth or bandage. If possible, raise the wound above the level of your heart. If the burglar has not fled, pretend to be dead. Your best chance at not getting shot again is for the intruder to believe you have died.

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Warnings

Each situation is different and these males were young but if it is a hardened criminal that you are dealing with there may not be much you can do but, again, asking them to leave without killing you is always worth a try.